Set up the Apple TV Remote app

With the Apple TV Remote app or the Apple TV Remote in Control Center, you can control your Apple TV with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.

In iOS 12, the Apple TV Remote is automatically added to Control Center so you can quickly navigate and control playback on your Apple TV 4K or Apple TV (4th generation). Or you can download the Apple TV Remote app from the App Store to access more features, like Now Playing and Game mode.

If you lost or don’t have the remote that came with your Apple TV, learn what to do.

Set up the Apple TV Remote in Control Center

If you’ve set up your iOS device to control your Apple TV, then the Apple TV Remote is automatically added to Control Center when you update iOS 12.

If you haven’t set up your iOS device to control your Apple TV or have an earlier version of iOS, you can manually add the Apple TV Remote to Control Center. Just go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls and tap next to Apple TV Remote.

Set up the Apple TV Remote app

Download the Apple TV Remote app from the App Store on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. If you already have it, check that you have the latest version. To find out, open the App Store and tap Updates.

On Apple TV 4K or Apple TV (4th generation), wait for a four-digit code to appear on your television. Enter this code on the pairing screen that appears on your iOS device. If the code doesn’t appear and you can control your Apple TV, your iOS device is already paired and you can start using the app.